Under new defensive coordinator Charlton Warren, Air Force has put a renewed emphasis on rushing the passer. It showed in their opening week victory against Idaho State, where the Falcons racked up two sacks and six tackles for loss.
However, their increased aggressiveness could come back to bite them against No. 19 Michigan this week, as Denard Robinson has the speed and athleticism to make teams pay for breaking contain as they rush the passer.
"Shoelace", as he is often called, is more dangerous running the ball than throwing it. Last season, he had 2,173 yards passing and 20 TD's and 15 INT's compared to 1,176 yards rushing and 16 TD's on the ground.
In their opening week loss to Alabama, the Crimson Tide neutralized the dual-threat QB by keeping Robinson in a shell to prevent him from getting outside of the pocket and dared him to beat them over the top with his arm. However, the Crimson Tide have far superior athletes to Air Force, so the Falcons may have no choice but to roll the dice and pin their ears back to rush him.
For more on Air Force football, visit MWC blog Mountain West Connection and SB Nation Denver. For more on Wolverines football, visit Michigan blog Maize 'n' Brew, plus Big Ten blog Off Tackle Empire and SB Nation Detroit.